Future Talent Programme

At McKinsey, we know that diverse and inclusive teams enrich our creativity, innovation, and problem-solving abilities. We develop outstanding leaders and want to attract talented individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. We are committed to broadening access to careers in consulting.

We invite university students in the United Kingdom and Ireland from disadvantaged backgrounds* to apply to our Future Talent Programme. As a programme participant, you will meet peers, develop practical skills, and learn about the consulting industry. Our aim is to support talented individuals who may be currently underrepresented in leadership roles.

*This may encompass a variety of experiences, including but not limited to: being the first generation in one’s family to attend university, being eligible for free school meals or growing up in a low-income household.

Future Talent Programme

• The first Future Talent Programme event will take place on July 21, 2023, in London. Those admitted into the programme will be invited to regular touchpoints over the course of two years, both virtual and in person.

Participants will:

• Be part of a network: As well as the event this summer, you’ll be invited to attend a networking event in the spring of your second year of university to re-connect with peers and McKinsey colleagues. Your programme peers and contacts at McKinsey will serve as a support system as you face personal and professional decisions in the coming years.
• Build leadership skills: You will meet exceptional business leaders and McKinsey colleagues who will host informal discussions on topics such as leadership and problem solving. You will also learn transferable skills such as how to communicate effectively in different scenarios.
• Explore consulting career options: You will be coached and mentored by McKinsey colleagues from diverse backgrounds in order to help you make the most of future consulting career opportunities. You will have a mentor who will be on hand to provide advice throughout your two years in this programme.

Who should apply?

• You will be making some big choices over the coming years. What career path should I choose? What passions do I want to pursue?
• You might never have considered becoming a consultant, or even know what a consultant does. If you want to meet interesting people, develop your leadership skills and learn more about the consulting industry, this programme could be a great fit for you.

Eligibility

• We welcome applications from students from all degree backgrounds in their first year (or second year if enrolled in a four-year degree) of university in the United Kingdom and Ireland, who come from a disadvantaged background.
• This may encompass a variety of experiences, including but not limited to: being the first generation in one’s family to attend university, being eligible for free school meals or growing up in a low-income household.
• To apply, please submit your CV (two-page maximum) by June 11, 2023. On your CV, you should include the following:
• Contact information – Full name, address, mobile number and email address
• Education – Include the university you attend, subject you study and qualifications (along with dates)
• Please also include your A-level subjects and grades (or equivalent); there is no need to list each GCSE grade separately
• Work experience – List any kind of work experience you’ve had – part-time jobs, internships, volunteer roles, etc. We’d encourage you to think about any experience where you’ve gained skills.
• Extra-curricular and interests – Include specific hobbies, clubs you’ve been part of and any leadership positions. We want to learn more about you and your specific passions!
• Once you've submitted your CV, you will receive a link to complete Solve, McKinsey's assessment game.

Please note participation in the programme is based on a self-identification of satisfying the above criteria. Providing details on your social or economic background is not mandatory and entirely voluntary.